We may not have heard much about the weather system in southwest Saskatchewan last week until it hit with significant ferocity but that isn’t happening a second time with the blizzard descending on southeast Saskatchewan.
Environment Canada had already sent out an advisory about stocking up and being prepared, now the government has done the same and the RCMP are also on board.
The government of Saskatchewan advises residents in the southeast to download SaskAlert if they haven’t already because the App will issue emergency alerts outlining what kind of emergency it is, where it is taking place and instructions will be provided as well. The province is suggesting residents have a 72 hour preparedness kit ready in the event power goes out and roads are impassable.
The RCMP are asking drivers to check the weather and check the highway hotline. They also say remove all snow from your vehicle and make sure all your windows are clear so you can see and so both tail lights and headlights are readily visible.
The RCMP also advises against using cruise control in unsafe road conditions and says slow down in respect of road conditions. Motorists are encouraged to pack an emergency kit in the car with a snow shovel, something for traction, extra clothing for warmth, snacks, matches and candles, booster cables and a tow rope. And finally, if you become stuck stranded do not leave your vehicle but make sure your tail pipe is clear of snow or ice.
Environment Canada says a major spring blizzard is poised to wallop southeastern Saskatchewan beginning overnight and lasting through to Friday morning. Widespread blizzard conditions are expected Tuesday night into early Wednesday morning with northerly winds gusting 70-90 km/h giving zero visibility at times in snow and blowing snow.
A Colorado low will move towards Minnesota bringing a heavy swath of snow through southeastern Saskatchewan. The snow will start early Tuesday evening near the International border then push northward throughout the night. By Wednesday morning heavy snow will be falling in much of the area as the storm continues to push northward. Strong northerly winds will develop with this system and persist into Friday morning as the low slowly pivots through Minnesota on it’s way into northwestern Ontario.